Auburn's Blackmon away from team after taking a job to support his family; football future uncertain

The star-crossed career of linebacker Tray Blackmon has taken another turn. Auburn coach Tommy Tuberville said Blackmon is not around the team because he has a job to support his family. Tuberville said he isn't sure if Blackmon will return.

Blackmon suffered a broken bone in his wrist in the fourth game of the year, tried to play on, but hasn't played the last three weeks following surgery.

Tuberville said Blackmon is still going to class, but ``he wanted to get a part-time job because he's got some kids. That's what he needed to do. I'm sure he'll make his decision after the first of the year what he wants to do -- whether he'll stay in school or whether he's going to stay. That's a personal decision for him.

``He's got to make it for what's best for his family. I think a lot of times when guys get injured they tend to look at the other side: `Do I need to keep doing this?' But he's a football player, and I think he'll make a decision based on his future, and for his family. We'll be supportive of it.''

Blackmon has battled suspensions and injuries during his career. He has 21 tackles this year and 84 tackles in his career.

Tuberville said he won't be at the Georgia game on Saturday because ``there's nothing he can do. Still, he's got to get his grades, got to get his classes. That's the biggest thing. He also knew he had to get a job to support his family since he wasn't playing. He hasn't been around much. There's no rehab he can do.

``He's got a lot of responsibilities.''

**Auburn stayed on the practice field a few extra minutes Wednesday because the coaches expect rain for this morning's practice. If the weather is bad, the Tigers will have to practice in their indoor facility. Usually, the offense and defense practice separately in the indoor facility because it's small.

Tuberville said Wednesday was an ``enthusiastic practice.''

``We got a few guys back there, still got some walking wounded, so hopefully we can get a few more back at practice,'' he said. ``Today was just trying to get our game plan in knowing we'll probably have to go inside, so we won't get as much practice time.''